Multiple choice

In an ordinary fire extinguisher, carbon dioxide is generated by the reaction of _____.

  1. marble powder and dilute H2SO4

  2. magnesite and dilute H2SO4

  3. limestone and dilute H2SO4

  4. sodium bi-carnonate and dilute H2SO4
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
D Correct answer
Explanation

Sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) reacts rapidly with dilute sulfuric acid to produce carbon dioxide gas through acid-base reaction: 2NaHCO3 + H2SO4 → Na2SO4 + 2H2O + 2CO2. This quick CO2 generation makes it ideal for fire extinguishers. Marble, magnesite, and limestone react too slowly for effective emergency use.

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